Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, University of Aberdeen, United Kingdom

Stephen Turner

Department of Child Health, University of Aberdeen, United Kingdom

Peter Helms

Department of Child Health, University of Aberdeen, United Kingdom

Anthony Seaton

Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, University of Aberdeen, United Kingdom

Abstract

Background We have previously reported
associations between maternal vitamin E, vitamin D and
zinc intakes during pregnancy and asthma, wheeze and
eczema in 5-year-old children. In this report we
investigate whether maternal intake of specific foods
during pregnancy is associated with asthma, and allergic
outcomes in the same children.

Methods A longitudinal birth cohort study was
conducted among 1924 children born to women recruited
during pregnancy. Maternal diet during pregnancy was
assessed by food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Cohort
children were followed up at 5 years by symptom
questionnaire and FFQ. Food groups of interest were
fruit, vegetables, fruit juice, whole grain products,
fish, dairy products and fat spreads. Trends across
outcome groups defined by level of food intake are
presented.

Conclusion There was no evidence for associations
between maternal intake of most foods during pregnancy,
and asthma, respiratory and allergic outcomes in 5-year-
old children, except for apples and fish. Consumption of
apples and fish during pregnancy may have a protective
effect against the development of childhood asthma and
allergic disease.

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